Iohannis: Signing of EU accession treaty acknowledged Romania being ready to join democracy space

Romania's President Klaus Iohannis on Saturday issued a message on the 10th anniversary of Romania having signed an accession treaty with the European Union in which he says the event has special significance for Romania, the same as Romania's accession to NATO has, as it proved the political elites and society were able to unite their efforts in order to achieve major national objectives that transcended particular or opportunistic interests.

Photo credit (c): ALEX MICSIK / AGERPRES PHOTO

'The signing of the accession treaty came after a difficult negotiating process that marked deep-going transformations in many of Romania's economic and social areas. That moment signified acknowledgement of Romania being ready to become a member of the European Union, to join a space of values defined by democracy, the rule of law, market economy, respect for the fundamental human rights and freedoms. Today, we can be proud of being part of a union of sovereign states that plays a significant part globally, of the great European family which fundamental objectives are securing peace, stability and prosperity for its citizens and promoting democracy and the rule of law. Romania has proved being a credible and predictable partner that consistently speaks up in favour of deepening the European design and the fundamental principles and values of the European Union being observed,' reads the presidential message.

Iohannis says the path travelled by Romania since the signing of the accession treaty has no been easy, but Romania has transformed itself a lot in terms of state and society, while deploying significant efforts for modernisation.

'The EU membership Romania won on January 1, 2007 has brought multiple benefits to the Romanian citizens. The...